FP1 cancelled in Baku after manhole drama

The first practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix was abandoned a little over 10 minutes into the session as a loose manhole cover caused mayhem in Baku.

Heavy damage was caused to the underside of George Russell's Williams car when he ran over a drain cover down towards Turn 3, which television replays showed had already been loosened by the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc.

The session was red flagged as circuit workers tried to get the manhole cover back in place and Race Control needed to check the other manholes at the circuit – of which there are a reported 300.

"I just hit it and got the biggest smack through my body," Russell told Sky Sports afterwards. "I was just going down the straight on my normal line.

"The engine turned off, it's ruined the floor and the chassis could be ruined. The session won't be going green until it's sorted and it's ruined the session.

"I'm better, still not 100 per cent but going in the right direction."